The U.S. Department of Energy/National Nuclear Security Administration, through its Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence (NSDD), presented five new mobile radiation detection systems worth $2 million to Nigeria Police Force (NPF).
The U.S Dept insisted that it will continue to work closely with Nigeria’s security services on technical assistance, equipment, professional exchange and training opportunities.
Receiving the donation was the Commissioner of Police, Explosive Ordinance Disposal and Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (EOD-CBRN) Command, Zannah Shettima.
During the handover ceremony in Lagos, U.S. Consulate Assistant Regional Security Officer Jon Dvorak described the donation as an important step in advancing the robust U.S.-Nigeria security cooperation.
The official noted that the equipment training will enhance the police’s ability to interdict the smuggling of nuclear and radioactive material into and within the country.
Dvorak expressed the commitment of the U.S. government to expand partnership with other Nigerian security services to counter nuclear smuggling operations.
The U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Smuggling Detection and Deterrence builds global capability to detect, disrupt and investigate the smuggling of nuclear and radioactive material to foil its use for terrorism.
“Nigeria remains one of the United States’ key partners in combating the smuggling of illicit nuclear and radioactive material.
“Nigeria stands tall not only in Africa but globally, in its commitment to preventing the trafficking and use of materials that pose a threat to health and safety”, he said.
